The Ultimate Bleeding Gums Quiz

How often do your gums bleed? If it’s more than once in awhile, you may have gingivitis or even something worse! But don't get too alarmed. There are other explanations for bloody gums. Take this quiz to find out how much you know about the causes, symptoms and solutions for bleeding gums.

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Question 1 of 20

Which vitamin is the most important to prevent bleeding gums?

vitamin A

vitamin C

vitamin K

Vitamin K is the most important nutrient for dental health and blood clotting. It can be found in your favorite leafy green veggies.

Bleeding gums are a symptom of gum disease. Of course, there are other reasons your gums might bleed, but you should definitely make an appointment to see your dentist as soon as possible.

False

Maybe, but it has nothing to do with bloody gums.

Question 5 of 20

What percentage of American adults over 35 suffer from gum disease?

25 percent

50 percent

75 percent

Over 75 percent of American adults over 35 suffer from some form of gum disease. The highest percentage have gingivitis, which is treatable.

Question 6 of 20

What stress hormone can affect your gum health?

estrogen

testosterone

cortisol

The stress hormone cortisol causes inflammation throughout your body and in your gums.

Question 7 of 20

What common household poison can cause bleeding gums?

bug spray

rat poison

As it's name suggests, rat poison is highly toxic and ingesting it can cause a variety of ailments, from bleeding gums to death. Call poison control immediately if you suspect that you, your kids or your pets have swallowed some of this potentially fatal toxin.

ant traps

Question 8 of 20

How often should you visit your dentist for a cleaning?

twice a year

The American Dental Association recommends you visit your dentist for a cleaning twice a year. Brushing, flossing and regular trips to the dentist will help prevent bleeding gums and just about every other kind of dental-related problem.

every other year

once a year

Question 9 of 20

What should you do first if your gums won't stop bleeding?

rinse with mouthwash

brush harder

apply pressure with a cool compress

Soak a gauze pad in ice water, and apply pressure to your bleeding gums. If that doesn't stop the bleeding, call you dentist or doctor.

Question 10 of 20

What disease does not have bleeding gums as a symptom?

leukemia

idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)

strep throat

Strep throat does not cause bleeding gums.

Question 11 of 20

Exposure to what element can cause bleeding gums?

silver

mercury

Exposure to mercury, found in glass thermometers, can cause bleeding gums. Contact poison control if you are exposed to mercury.

boron

Question 12 of 20

What is the most common cause of bleeding gums?

genetics

poisoning

poor dental hygiene

Poor dental hygiene is the leading cause of bleeding gums, so brush and floss daily!

Question 13 of 20

Pregnancy gingivitis, which is a fluctuation in hormone levels during pregnancy, is at its peak during which trimester?

first

second

The bleeding gums of pregnancy gingivitis are at their worst during the second trimester.

third

Question 14 of 20

Quitting what habit can greatly improve your dental health and put you at a lower risk of bleeding gums?

drinking

nail biting

smoking

Smoking and using tobacco products irritates your gums and the tissue in your mouth, so quitting lessens your likelihood of having bloody gums.

Question 15 of 20

What color are healthy gums?

red

coral pink

Healthy gums are coral pink and firm. Any other appearance requires attention from your dentist.

pale pink

Question 16 of 20

Plaque, the sticky stuff which builds up on your teeth and can cause gum disease, is made up of what?

bacteria

mucus

both of the above

Plaque is nasty stuff. It's made up of bacteria, mucus and food particles.

Question 17 of 20

Bleeding gums are commonly the result of:

using the wrong kind of toothpaste

brushing too hard

Your gums are sensitive, and brushing too hard can make them bleed. If you think your bloody gums are the result of being a little to forceful with the toothbrush, ease up and use a brush with softer bristles.

both of the above

Question 18 of 20

What organ is often damaged by advanced-stage bleeding gums?

lungs

brain

heart

It's shocking, but the bacteria in your mouth can actually enter your bloodstream and contaminate other parts of your body. In fact, it can even cause heart disease.

Question 19 of 20

When your gums are irritated, what is the best rinsing agent?

a mouthwash with alcohol

salt water

Salt water works wonders for bleeding gums. No, you don't have to swish and spit brine -- make your own solution with table salt and tap water.

cold water

Question 20 of 20

Your gums may bleed if you start flossing regularly.

True

There are a lot of reasons your gums may bleed, and starting a new flossing regiment, especially if you haven't had one before, may be a cause. If they're still bleeding a few days after you first pick up the dental floss, however, make an appointment to see your dentist, because it could be the symptom of a more serious condition.